Ohio Turnpike aims to cut jobs amid more automation

CLEVELAND — The Ohio Turnpike says more automation means fewer toll collectors are needed, so 22 will lose their jobs.

The (Cleveland) Plain Dealer reported the first-ever layoff of turnpike toll takers will cut 15 full-time employees and seven who work part-time.

Turnpike interim executive director Daniel Castrigano told the newspaper the toll road doesn’t require as many people to collect toll money because more drivers are using the E-ZPass electronic payment system. The turnpike also is expanding the number of fully automated toll plazas, with machines that accept motorists’ cash or plastic.

Castrigano said the layoffs will take effect at the end of July and save about $1 million a year.

The Plain Dealer reported the Turnpike has 235 full-time collectors and 226 part-timers.